Eligibility Requirements

Please review the following eligibility requirements BEFORE applying:

* Please note that documentation (like a referral) verifying a barrier to employment may be requested – referrals from San Diego Community Based Organizations and/or Parole/Probation Officers are highly encouraged.

  • Must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment.
  • Must have I-9 documentation and be eligible for employment in the U.S.A.
  • Must be either unemployed or underemployed AND have a barrier to employment:
    • Justice Impacted (History of Incarceration)
    • Formerly Experienced Homelessness
    • Former Foster Care Youth or Transitional Aged Youth (TAY)
    • Substance Abuse Challenges
    • Mental Health Challenges
    • Veteran
  • Must be considered to be Low-and Moderate-Income (LMI), meaning your household is at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI).
    • This eligibly criteria is screened prior to acceptance.
  • Must not be currently enrolled in any CA state-certified apprenticeship.
  • Must be open to a background check and not have any outstanding arrest warrants.
    • Kitchens for Good is a supporter of second chances.

If accepted into an apprenticeship program:

  • Must be able to commit to a full-time class schedule for the 4-11 week initial training period. (Schedule is subject to change with notice.)
    • Culinary Apprenticeship — Front-Loaded (10 to 11-Week Initial Training)
      • Monday-Thursday; 8:30 am-4 pm
      • Main Campus – Linda Vista, Door of Hope Campus
    • Culinary Apprenticeship — Dual Instruction (20-Day Initial Training)
      • Monday-Friday; 8:30 am-4 pm
      • Main Campus – Linda Vista, Door of Hope Campus
  • Must want to commit to the one-year apprenticeship program:
    • 4-11 Weeks (Depending on chosen program)
      • Hands-on, foundational skill training, AND
    • 9-11 Months
      • On-The-Job (OJT) Training (part-time to full-time employment) with a food-service industry employer in San Diego County
      • Additional monthly workshops at Kitchens for Good — schedule dependent on chosen apprenticeship program.

If you have questions regarding eligibility, contact Avery Sprenger, Outreach Coordinator, at Avery@KitchensForGood.org or (619) 828-5928. You may call or text this number, but please leave only one voicemail. When leaving a message, clearly state your full name and the best time to reach you. Please allow up to three business days for a return call.

APPLY NOW!